Singaporebrides | Editors' Notes

Designer Feature: Carol Hannah 2014

Known for her innovative use of textiles and her fluid silhouettes, Carol Hannah does not disappoint with her 2014 collection. Inspired by the Rorscharch inkblot test, the collection challenges the way we see things by experimenting with a mix of hard and soft textiles such as leather and metal alongside flowing chiffon and intricate beading. Full of moody undertones, these gowns evoke a yearning for the stars, yet glow with the strength of womanhood. The fashion forward collection is perfect for the sophisticated, complex woman who still believes in reaching for romance.

Le LumiereLe LumiereLe LumiereLe MondeLe MondeL’AmoureauxL’Amoureaux

Chainmail, horsehair, lamb leather and silk wool are not textiles you see on most wedding gowns. Hannah’s collection bucks tradition with unconventional fabrics, and the mixtures of fluid silks with angular seaming create gowns that are bold, contemporary and fresh. I’m blown away by the story of complexity these gowns tell, of a woman who’s strong enough to entrust her heart, that most vulnerable part of her being, to her lover.

La Lune features seamed silk wool in a fit and flare gown with an intricate bodice of leather, beading and sequinned embellishment. The stunning mix of textiles create a modern wedding gown with pinpricks of light, like constellations glimmering in the unknown. Le Lumiere is a sensual effusion of chainmail adorned silk chiffon, and features an asymmetrical neck, dramatic open back and high slit. A stylishly contemporary gown with lambskin leather, illusion neckline and organza inkblot embellishment, De Marseille is a dramatic gown for the daring bride.

La LuneLa LuneLe SoleilLe SoleilLe SoleilDe MarseilleDe Marseille

Another element I love about the collection is how, true to its subjective inkblot inspiration, it allows brides to mix and match separates to create an individual vision. For example, Alliette Bustier, a leather and silk faille seamed bustier top, makes a sexy, edgy gown together with La Reine Skirt, a fit and flare skirt with geometric seaming and draped train.

These sensuous, modern gowns are breathtaking in their edgy mix of hard and soft textiles. The creamy shades of leather, chainmail embellishments and striking geometric lines combine so lustrously with the liquid skirts that I’m in love with their vision of being in love.